Freeman Playground to host 'Wild' Wednesdays in July

Monday

Jul 3, 2017 at 8:57 AM

Wild Wednesdays. Sound intriguing?

It is a special day of the week set aside when the Mississippi River State park will join forces with the Freeman Playground to present an educational series during the month of July to educate youngsters about wild animals and other creatures native to Arkansas and particularly the Delta region.

Wild Wednesdays. Sound intriguing?

It is a special day of the week set aside when the Mississippi River State park will join forces with the Freeman Playground to present an educational series during the month of July to educate youngsters about wild animals and other creatures native to Arkansas and particularly the Delta region.

The activities will begin at 10:30 a.m. and will continue until noon at the playground each Wednesday in July beginning this week, July 5.

The first program is entitled “What's Wild.” Children will be taught the differences between wild and tame animals and what they should do if they come upon wild ones in nature. A story will be read to help explain the differences. There also will be a game for the youngsters to identify animals as wild (those to leave alone and admire from a distance) or tame (those kept as pets or on farms that they can pet with the owners permission).

On July 12, Birds will be the topic of study. Participants will be able to learn about the various ways native birds are able to survive in their environment. They will also be able to hear bird calls, learn about bill shapes and different types of feathers.

During the July 19 session, insects will be the center of attention for the day. Information will be provided to determine whether some of the critters frequently referred to bugs are insects or not. Their life cycles also will be probed.

July 26 will be the final session. It is called “Love'em and Leav'em.” Wild baby animals are frequently left alone by their mothers in the wild for a reason. It will be explained that you should avoid making the mistake of “rescuing” baby wild animals. Children will be taught why it is best to love and leave wild animals in their natural habitats.

Make plans to come out for a “wild” adventure each Wednesday in July at Freeman Playground. The playground is located at 803 Beech St. behind the Pillow-Thompson House. All activities are free and snacks will be provided.

Meanwhile Summer Saturdays continue at the playground through August beginning at 10:30 a.m.